Weekend scorcher promised as BBQ competition heats up in Limerick

Over 100 teams from all over the world have ascended onto Limerick City to take part in the most prestigious event in the barbecue world.

This event, which only takes place every two years, was won by the Limerick submission 18 months ago beating off international competition from countries including Italy and Lithuania, and with the luck of the Irish the weather is not going to disappoint. “It is fantastic for Ireland to host this incredibly important culinary barbecue event, we are proud that Limerick was chosen and it’s an amazing opportunity for us as a nation to show off our incredible local produce and our renowned hospitality - we are thrilled the weathergods are shining upon us!”Patrick O’Sullivan, President of the World Barbecue Association.

This three-day family-friendly festival takes place Friday 13th, Saturday 14th and Sunday 14th where temperatures are set to soar beyond 20º. The event kicks off with a parade through the streets of Limerick on Friday from 5pm, where international teams from over 30 countries around the world are lead into the barbecue arena in the People’s Park, Limerick and the competition commences. “The WBQA pride themselves on their ethos that this is a sport of fire, food, friendship & fun but don’t be disillusioned, this is incredibly competitive and each team is in it to win it and claim the coveted WBQA World BBQ Champion 2017 title and have a chance to win some of the €15,000 prize fund.”Ken Switzer, WBQA Senior Trainer.

Pictured at the launch of the World BBQ Championships (WBQA) is Chef John Relihan. Picture: Arthur Ellis

The event will continue through to Sunday with over 40,000 revellers young and old expected to visit. This spectacular event which will attract the culinary enthusiasts and back-yard barbecuers alike and will witness the variety, drama, fun and skill involved in transforming a passion for flame and slow cooking into a sport. The park will be open to the public on Friday 13th from 4pm – 10pm and on Saturday and Sunday 11am – 10pm. Friday tickets are priced at €5, and Saturday and Sunday tickets are available at €10 per person per day, with children under 18 accompanied by a parent FREE. There is also the option to buy a weekend ticket (Friday to Sunday) for only €15.